Concern over Jackson's drug use

2009-06-28 11:36

Los Angeles - The cardiologist who was with Michael Jackson when he collapsed is "in no way a suspect" in the pop singer's death, a spokesperson for the doctor said after a three-hour interview with detectives.

Dr Conrad Murray "helped identify the circumstances around the death of the pop icon and clarified some inconsistencies," spokesperson Miranda Sevcik said Saturday in a statement. "Investigators say the doctor is in no way a suspect and remains a witness to this tragedy."

Police confirmed that they interviewed Murray, adding that he was co-operative and "provided information which will aid the investigation."

The statement said Murray rode in the ambulance and stayed at the hospital for hours, "comforting and consoling the Jackson family." It also said he has been in Los Angeles since Jackson's death, and plans to stay here until his cooperation is no longer needed.

Use of painkillers

Murray was with Jackson when the singer stopped breathing on Thursday, and reportedly performed CPR until paramedics arrived.

People close to Jackson have said since his death that they were concerned about the superstar's use of painkillers. Los Angeles County medical examiners completed their autopsy Friday and said Jackson had taken prescription medication.

Medical officials also said there was no indication of trauma or foul play. An official cause of death could take weeks.

The coroner's office released the body to Jackson's family Friday night. There was no immediate word on whether the second autopsy was being performed right away. Jesse Jackson described the family as grief-stricken.

"They're hurt because they lost a son. But the wound is now being kept open by the mystery and unanswered questions of the cause of death," he said.

Police towed Murray's car from Jackson's home hours after Jackson died and said later it could contain medication or other evidence. Coroner's officials also said Jackson was taking prescription medication but declined to elaborate.

Worried

Murray lives in Las Vegas but apparently left his practice and moved in with Jackson about two weeks ago. 

Also Saturday, spiritual teacher Dr. Deepak Chopra said he had been concerned since 2005 that Jackson was abusing prescription painkillers and most recently spoke to the pop star about suspected drug use six months ago.

Chopra said Jackson, a longtime friend, asked him for painkillers in 2005 when the singer was staying with him following his trial on sex abuse allegations. Chopra said he refused. He also said the nanny of Jackson's children repeatedly contacted him with concerns about Jackson's drug use over the next four years.

He said she told him a number of doctors would visit Jackson's homes in Santa Barbara County, Los Angeles, Miami and New York. Whenever the subject came up, Jackson would avoid his calls, Chopra said. 

- AP